samudra

Issue 1
samudra : XX
samudra
A bi-monthly Publication of the Singapore Organisation of Seamen and Seacare Co-operative Limited MICA (P) 261/03/2011
June 2011
Singapore Ratifies
MLC 2006samudra
Issue 1 (1)

Issue 1
June 2011
Contents
03
samudra
28
16 18
Features
International
& Industrial
Relations
Membership
& Welfare
Seacare
Focus
03 NTUC Marks Golden
Jubilee
06 Singapore Ratifies
MLC 2006
08 Building Bilateral
Relations
10 SOS Workshop 2011
12 ITF OTFG Seeks Resolution
to Misuse of Flag
12 US$28,000 Recovered for
Myanmese Seafarers
13 Models for Good Practice
14 Sharpening Skills;
Boosting Capabilities
16 Walking in Seafaring
Shoes
18 A Close Shave with Death
20 Tug-of-War Champs!
22 An Evening of Fun and
Games
24 Seacare 2015 Workplan
Seminar
28 New Maritime Training
Institute in Nantong, China
30 ACLC 2011
52 Chin Swee Road, #09-00, Seacare Building, Singapore 169875
Tel: 6379 5666 · Fax: 6734 5525 · Email: sosea@seacare.com.sg
www.sosea.org.sg / www.seacare.com.sg

NTUC Marks Golden Jubilee
Fifty luminaries were honoured with Special Recognition Awards at this year’s
May Day dinner on 13 May. Honoraries included veteran unionists, grassroots
and political leaders.
In conjunction with the celebration of NTUC’s 50th Anniversary, the awards were fitting tributes paid to the men and
women who were key pillars to the formation and growth of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC).
Held at the Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort, a 3,500 strong crowd comprising union leaders - past and present,
tripartite representatives, NTUC staff, unions and Social Enterprises and unionists from the international labour fraternity
joined in the celebration.
In his speech, NTUC President Mr John De Payva credited the 50 stalwarts for their deep-seated understanding of the
Labour Movement’s importance to the welfare of Singapore workers.
“Many of them were there when NTUC first started in 1961, and have used their influence and power to fight for the
rights of all workers, whether it was enhancing labour-management relations, charting new directions or championing
workers’ causes in good times and bad. Workers today are reaping the fruits of their hard labour, and much can be learnt
from them.”
Of the 50 luminaries, three had long standing ties with the Singapore Organisation of Seamen (SOS). They are former
SOS President Mr R A Hamid, SOS Advisor and IPSG Mr Lim Boon Heng, and SOS Legal Advisor Mr Choo Eng Khoon.
Mr R A Hamid (Posthumous)
Between 1962 and 1970, no registered trade union
existed to serve local seamen. Instrumental in the formative
years of SOS, Mr Hamid, then SOS’ first President persuaded
port workers from the Singapore Harbour Board Staff Union to
join the NTUC.
“Our seamen at that time were facing a lot of problems.
Their working conditions were appalling. The need for a union
had never been greater.”
- The late Mr R A Hamid, Former President of SOS
samudra Issue 1 (3)

Mr Lim Boon Heng
A former NTUC Secretary-General who championed the
call for a flexible wage system in response to the 1997 Asian
Financial Crisis, Mr Lim pushed for training, skills upgrading
and job re-designing, helped grow union membership by
200,000, and is a strong advocate of tripartism. In addition
to his other portfolios, Mr Lim currently serves on SOS’
Executive Committee as an Advisor.
Mr Choo Eng Khoon
A stalwart who had served faithfully in the NTUC,
Mr Choo dedicated much time serving in the NTUC’s
Administration and Research Unit (NTUCARU). He now
serves as SOS Legal Advisor.
“It was a pleasant surprise
when I was informed of this
special recognition. NTUC,
when I first joined the NTUC’s
Administration and Research
Unit, was very different from
what it is today and I am
very proud of its growth and
achievements in these years.
I wish the Labour Movement
greater success in the next 50
years.” - SOS Legal Advisor Mr Choo
Eng Khoon
Mr John De Payva also recognised Guest-Of-Honour Mr
Lee Kuan Yew for his pivotal role in the labour scene - citing
Mr Lee’s waiver of his professional legal fees in fighting
for the rights of workers prior to entering politics, and his
foresight as Prime Minister to transform the confrontational
labour relations approach to a collaborative one between
union and management. His mindfulness of workers’ and
unions’ interests had formed the basis of the tripartite
relationship we now know today.
“From uncertainty and unrest with no job
security to speak of in the fifties, to a strong
economy and steady employment today, Mr Lee’s
vision and commitment saw improvement in the
quality of life for millions of Singapore workers.”
Before his speech, guests watched a video of Mr Lee
– capturing his past speeches in his trademark fiery, steely
and inspirational style.
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“I am happy to join you today in celebrating
the 50th Anniversary of the NTUC. …In Government,
I have never forgotten that it is in the interest of
workers and their unions that we must strive for
growth and development. In other words, growth
is meaningless unless it is shared by the workers,
shared not only directly in wage increases but
indirectly in better homes, better schools, better
hospitals, better playing fields, a healthier
environment for their families and for their children
to grow up. I am glad that since I stood down as
Prime Minister in 1990, successive Prime Ministers,
first Goh Chok Tong, now Lee Hsien Loong, both
carried out the same policies - pro-worker, pro-trade
unions.”
Pointing out that Singapore trade union leaders and
members are agents of change as opposed to the old British
and European trade unions, Mr Lee added that NTUC’s present
challenge lies in keeping up with the rapid pace of economic
transformation in the midst of rapidly changing technology,
which introduces new lifestyles, new ways of communication,
and opens up new horizons.
“And you have to help our young workers,
including the old workers, professionals and rankand-file
to secure better jobs, better pay and live a
better life for many more years to come,” said Mr Lee.
Titled ‘U & Me’, Mr Lee also signed and launched NTUC’s
commemorative book – a historical account of the Labour
Movement’s heritage.
“The tripartism that we share today is the result
of the vision and hard work of our predecessors.
They have held fast to the belief that a collaborative
labour relations approach was indeed a possible
realisation. Our gratitude goes to these men and
women who have helped change our lives for the
better.”
- SOS General Secretary Mr Kam Soon Huat
samudra Issue 1 (5)

Singapore Ratifies
MLC 2006
On 14 June 2011 during his speech at the International Labour Conference in Geneva,
Switzerland, Senior Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Manpower (MOM),
Mr Hawazi Daipi announced Singapore’s ratification of the International Labour
Organisation’s (ILO) Maritime Labour Convention (MLC).
Ranked as one of the world’s top 10 largest ship registries, and regarded as a flag state reputed for its fleet and an
efficient maritime administration, Singapore’s decision to ratify the MLC 2006 makes it the 13th ILO member state and first
Asian country to do so.
Mr Hawazi explained that Singapore’s ratification is a significant step in applying provisions stated in the Convention
to Singapore-flagged ships in order to provide decent work for seafarers.
In addition to strengthening co-operation between Singapore and the ILO through the enhancement of human resource
management and regional development, Mr Hawazi also added that the MOM and ILO will be signing an agreement to
develop and implement a joint co-operation programme in progressive labour and workplace practices in the ASEAN region.
The ratification of the MLC is the fruit of extensive discussions and deliberations by a tripartite workgroup consisting
members from seafarer unions, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), the maritime industry, and the Singapore
National Employers Federation (SNEF) over the past few years. With this realised, Singapore can now begin taking definite
steps to effect legislative changes in alignment with MLC provisions, minimum standards and fair working conditions for
seafarers worldwide.
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“The MLC serves as a pillar of protection for seafarers. This signals the start of a series
of measures to improve the plight and working conditions of seafarers. There’s still a lot of
work to be done in terms of implementation, and the interpretation of provisions. Part of the
preparation involves comparing and fine tuning our collective agreements to make sure they
are on par with the provisions in MLC 2006.” – Mr Kam Soon Huat, General Secretary of the Singapore
Organisation of Seamen
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
“Seafarers play a critical role in enabling shipping, world trade and the world’s economy.
As a responsible maritime nation, Singapore is committed to enhancing and looking after the
wellbeing of seafarers. The ratification of MLC is part of this commitment.”
- Mr Lam Yi Young, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
“This is a significant step for Singapore, as we commit to applying the Convention’s
provisions to Singapore-registered ships and ships that call at our ports, as well as to achieve
decent working conditions for seafarers. As a responsible flag state, Singapore had actively
participated in the discussions that led to the adoption of this important Convention, which
consolidates and updates over 60 ILO Conventions and Recommendations. We look forward to
it entering into force in due course.”
- Mr Loh Khum Yean, Permanent Secretary of Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower in submitting the instrument
of ratification to the ILO
samudra Issue 1 (7)

Building
Bilateral
Relations
Learning Journey to NCSU
SOS Exco and staff visited the National Chinese Seamen’s
Union’s (NCSU) headquarters in Taipei City on 7 April
2011 as part of a learning trip to strengthen bilateral
ties with the union.
Greeted by Union President Mr
Sun Jer-in, General Secretary
Mr Wu Hsueh-Chi, committee
members and NCSU staff
members, the visitors were
taken on a tour of the union
office and oriented on the
union’s history, welfare
schemes, functions, as well as
outreach methods to members
faced with geographical
inconveniences and more.
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NCSU is one of several leading unions in Taiwan with more than
20,000 members. Founded in 1946, the 65 year old union has
branches in Keelung and Kaohsiung harbours and service centres
which serve as havens for seafarers in transit.
Its membership as an ITF affiliate means that NCSU absorbs
international information and works closely with international
seafarer unions to protect the rights and prevent the exploitation
of both local and foreign crew members.
That same evening, a dinner was held in true Taipei hospitality for
the visitors.
“The trip was an opportune time to dialogue and
forge long lasting ties with the NCSU. It was also a good
eye-opener to observe the operations of a fellow union,
glean experiences and share best practices. We would
like to thank Union President Mr Sun Jer-in, General
Secretary Mr Wu Hsueh-Chi, the committee members
and staff for their very warm hospitality and wonderful
insight.”
- SOS General Secretary, Mr Kam Soon Huat
samudra Issue 1 (9)

SOS Workshop
Going Beyond;
Going Forward
Over the last 40 years, SOS has constantly
gone beyond the call of duty; reinventing
itself, and progressing onward to venture
and break new grounds. ‘Beyond’ and
‘Forward’ gives a renewed sense of hope,
confidence and vision.
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As such, in line with its 40th Anniversary theme, 40 SOS Executive
Committee members and management staff held a workshop on 8 April
to map its directions for FY2011/12 and determine how the Union could
go beyond and forward in serving the members.
After reviewing the existing membership services and welfare
schemes, the workshop participants brainstormed on ways to further
improve the benefits; and creative methods to enhance the marketing
and promotion of the benefits to the members.
One of the resolutions made at the workshop was widening the
reach and increasing the participation of the Seafarers’ Provident Fund,
Seacare Medical Scheme, Seacare Maritime Training Scheme, and
Seacare Sailor’s Home Scheme.
“We want to do more, reach more and better our service to our
members,” said Mr Kam Soon Huat, SOS General Secretary.
On the Industrial Relations front, the Union will continue to increase
the number of vessels covered and create focus groups to specialise
on the developments of Maritime Labour Convention, Standards of
Training, Certification and Watch keeping for Seafarers (STCW), Piracy
and criminalisation of seafarers.
The workshop, which took place in Taipei, Taiwan, also included a
learning journey to the National Chinese Seamen’s Union’s (NCSU) on 7
April 2011.
samudra Issue 1 (11)

ITF OTFG
Seeks Resolution to Misuse of Flag
The International Transport
Workers’ Federation (ITF)
held their Offshore Task Force
Group (OTFG) Meeting from 24 to 26
May 2011 at Hotel Park Split, Croatia.
The meet saw the adoption of the
provisional OTFG agenda, the report
of the previous ITF OTFG Meeting in
Mumbai in February 2010, a general
report of OTFG activities the past year,
motions and upcoming campaigns of
2011-2012.
Issues raised at the meeting
included the subject of offshore vessel
companies conveniently flying the flag
of Singapore and hiding behind it to
evade ITF affiliates, and the need to
protect the welfare of seafarers through
the signing of Collective Bargaining
Agreements (CBAs).
Considering previous setbacks of
spurned advances to develop relations
with Singaporean offshore companies,
the OTFG will now discuss a way forward,
which might include a work programme
to map out all offshore companies
registered in Singapore and to find ways
of imposing political and industrial
pressure to move the position.
Said SOS Vice President Mr
Mohamad B Abu Bakar who was present
at the three day meet: “We are
working closely with the ITF to
see how we can work through
this issue to discourage and
prevent the further misuse of
flags of convenience.”
US$28,000
Recovered
for Myanmese
Seafarers
Seven Myanmese crew members on board the Vietnam flagged MV Far East vessel were denied their wages for five
months from January to May this year.
The Seafarers Union of Burma (SUB) requested SOS to assist in the matter. Industrial Relations Officer, Mr Tan Kok
Heng attended to the matter by boarding the vessel to obtain and witness the payout of crewmembers’ dues amounting to
US$28,000 when the vessel arrived in Singapore Port.
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Models for Good Practice
At ICSW Seafarers’ Welfare Seminar
Challenges facing seafarers’ welfare and scrutinised key
issues for seafarers’ welfare including new technology
(both ashore and at sea), the Maritime Labour
Convention (MLC 2006), piracy, and shipping companies
and seafarers’ welfare - these and other critical issues were
presented at the Seminar on Seafarers’ Welfare held at the
Danish Shipowners Association on 14 April in Copenhagen,
Denmark.
SOS President Mr Mohamed Idris B Mohamed Ibrahim
was one of 80 representatives from shipping companies,
seafarer welfare organisations, and trade unions in
attendance at the International Committee On Seafarers’
Welfare (ICSW) seminar.
A range of interesting speakers including Mr Pia E Vos,
Vice President of the Danish Shipowners’ Association, and Mr
David Furnival, Group Managing Director of Bernard Schulte
Ship Management spoke on the needs of seafarers, the
challenges they face, crew welfare and safety.
Mr Per Gullestrup, CEO of Clipper Group, gave an
elaborate presentation on how his company managed the
taking of one of their ships by pirates and how they took care
of the affected crew and their families. The presentation was
well received and can be seen as a model of good practice.
In describing how the pirates’ area of operation is
extending to 250 nautical miles from the coast of India, Chair
of ‘Maritime Piracy – A Humanitarian Response’ project, Mr
Peter Swift, touched on how the new project is currently
identifying the needs of seafarers and their families before,
during and after piracy incidents.
The ICSW Seminar on Seafarers’ Welfare was preceded
the day before on 13 April with an Annual General Meeting,
which included a major session on the strategic review,
sessions on the finances of the ICSW, and reports on projects
and on 2010’s activities, which included the success of the
International Seafarers’ Welfare Awards and the Party in the
Park in Manila.
Attended by 40 people, the AGM discussed existing
and new projects, and plans for the next year, including the
proposed merger with the International Seafarers’ Assistance
Network (ISAN) and office relocation.
samudra Issue 1 (13)

Sharpening Skills;
Boosting Capabilities
Seacare Maritime Training Scheme (SMTS)
Two training sessions conducted by Neptune Shipmanagement Services
(Pte) Ltd and co-sponsored by SOS under the Seacare Maritime Training
Scheme (SMTS) recently took place in Kuala Kubu Bharu, Malaysia and
Cebu, Philippines.
Seacare Technical Skills
Enhancement Training Programme
The Seacare Technical Skills Enhancement Training Programme in
Kuala Kubu Bharu, Malaysia was initiated as a helpful refresher for trainees
(previously seafarers) who have not worked onboard ships for many years.
It served to enhance their safety and prepare them in all aspects for their
first assignment onboard the ship. Eight attendees underwent the nine-day
training programme from 23 to 31 May 2011.
Among the many subjects taught, the syllabus included modules on
safety such as Fire Fighting & Prevention,
Hazardous Material Handling, and Life
Saving; technical skills and knowledge
such as Steering, Maritime Terminology/
Ship Structure, Hot Work, and Mooring
Operations; and environment such
as MARPOL Pollution Prevention, and
Garbage Disposal and Segregation.
Trainees were taught relational skills
and how to get along with multi-nationals.
They were also brought up to scratch with
International Safety Management (ISM)
and International Ship and Port Facility
Security (ISPS) codes as well as seafarers’
rights on the MLC2006.
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Seacare Quality Cooks Training
Over in Cebu, Philippines, 10 experienced cooks currently working
with Neptune Shipmanagement Services (Pte) Ltd were put through
their paces in a Culinary Cooks Training Course at the University of Cebu
from 24 to 26 May 2011.
The three day course began with an introduction to the
requirements of MLC 2006 before delving into the nuts and bolts of
food preparation.
Apart from theory based deliveries such as Nutrition; Balanced
Diet; Cultural preferences; Proper Storage; Food Segregation; Galley
Layout & Equipment; and Food & Personal Hygiene, trainees were
taught the considerations of food preparation such as how to prepare
food for a crew member who is unwell and instructed on how to cook
healthy food using healthier alternatives.
Theory and practical lessons were delivered in a classroom setting
that was purposefully and thoughtfully constructed into a replica of
the galley for simulation, greater impact, and practical application of
theoretical concepts.
Trainees were also shown practical tips on improving one’s
knowledge on different cuisines; understanding the uses of various
ingredients; improving one’s food preparation skills; and how to
observe proper food and personal hygiene. In addition, the trainer
demonstrated creative methods to prepare and vary dishes using the
same types of ingredients.
Each trainee was provided with close to a hundred international
recipes to get them started on providing adequately nutritious food
with tastefully sufficient varieties of dishes for multi-national crews.
samudra Issue 1 (15)

Walking in
Seafaring Shoes
SOS-NSSPL Ship Familiarisation Programme
Five SOS staff were seconded to ships from the Neptune
Shipmanagement Services (Pte) Ltd (NSSPL) for one or more voyages
– each lasting between four days and two weeks. The programme
was mooted to boost one’s understanding of a members’ life onboard
a vessel, developments in ship technology and industry happenings
as part of the SOS-NSSPL Ship Familiarisation Programme.
Samudra looks at the experiences of the five SOS staff – Executive Secretary Daniel Tan, Welfare Manager David
Shoo, Manager Koh Soo Lee, and Executives Jullienne Low, and Colin Chia to find out what life was like for them onboard
the ships.
How long was your voyage?
Daniel: David and I lived onboard APL
Scotland from 18 to 22 May 2011.
Colin: Mine was a five-day voyage
spanning from 27 April to 1 May 2011.
Jullienne: Soo Lee and I departed
Singapore on 30 May and returned on
5 June 2011.
What sort of insights did you gain?
David: Safety and discipline onboard
was highly emphasised. On the
first day, the Master held a briefing
involving all crews onboard, gave a
short introduction about the voyage,
and highlighted all the important
safety procedures, with supporting
examples and reasons, that need to
be observed at all times.
Soo Lee: I gained insights about
a ship’s basic structure, the
responsibilities of each seafarer, and
teamwork in ensuring everyone’s
safety. The ocean is very vast, so it
can sometimes seem as though there
is no end point in sight. This is why
good teamwork and mutual support
are so important.
Daniel: We received a firsthand
glimpse into the day-to-day operations
and inner workings onboard a ship,
such as viewing the mooring ropes;
observing the storage of containers;
visiting the engine room, galley,
stores and rooms onboard; learning
about the different kinds of pumps;
and about bridge operations among
other duties.
Colin: I learnt that there are a
hundred and one ways to prepare
different dishes with the same
ingredients. Cooks receive special
training on this and learn to vary their
menus depending on the nationality
and palates of crew members.
How has your perspective of
seafaring life changed after this
experience?
David: A number of them enquired
about SOS welfare schemes such as
the Seafarers’ Provident Fund (SPF),
Seacare Medical Scheme (SMS),
Seacare Maritime Training Scheme
(SMTS), and Seacare Sailor’s Home
Scheme (SSS); as well as clarified
points contained in the Collective
Bargaining Agreement signed with the
Union. Listening to them share about
their family backgrounds, sailing
experience, and hardships, and taking
time to respond meticulously to their
questions, gives us a better feel of
ground sentiments. This helps us
tremendously in our work of providing
better social and welfare benefits for
our members.
Colin: Far from taking a leisurely
cruise around the world, there
are drills to run, mouths to feed,
machines that need maintaining and
schedules to keep track of!
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Jullienne: I now have a better grasp of the
job scopes of the different ranks. I was also
pleasantly surprised by their high level of
self-discipline towards their duties.
Daniel: Although we were not directly
involved in the actual work onboard, I’m
able to empathise with the tough life of
seafarers through our living and eating with
them, our understanding and observation of
ship operations, protocols and procedures.
What were some challenges of living onboard?
Jullienne: As they are away from home
for most of the time even during festive
seasons, the seafarer must learn ways to
overcome their home sickness and while
at sea, contend with limited phone and
internet connectivity.
Soo Lee: The seafarers are tough, and
the fact that they continue doing what
they do despite being away from their
families and other forms of recreation and
entertainment (which we sometimes take
for granted) deserves our utmost respect
and admiration.
David: It was interesting to see how
the crew, Master, tugboat operator and
the pilot communicate, co-ordinate and
maneuver/steer the vessel at various
stages – especially how the vessel pulled
away from the berth when they left Brani
Terminal in Singapore Port; when the vessel
passed through the busy and narrow Hong
Kong-China waters; and how the vessel
“parked” or pulled alongside/parallel to
the berth upon arriving at Chiwan Port,
Shenzhen in China.
Daniel: The small parties they organised
onboard. They usually have these once a
week to relax, mingle and bond.
Jullienne: We had a small gathering before
leaving. I felt like a crewmember myself
when we sang and played games together.
There was good team spirit.
Soo Lee: Yes, I observed a close sense of
companionship and camaraderie among the
Captain and crew members.
Colin: Meeting people from different races,
places and cultures can sometimes result in
culture shock since one will need to make
adjustments to integrate into a multiethnic,
multi-cultural setting. But once I
got to know the rest better, it was easier.
We shared stories about our own home
countries.
What were your most memorable
highlights onboard?
Colin: Trying to check under the grating of
the cargo hold for stowaways. It surprises
me that people can hide themselves in the
weirdest of places. It was also interesting
to find out how seamen keep themselves
entertained on long journeys. Although
largely replaced by the burgeoning
influence of the Internet, the ship has
multiple avenues for recreation; there
are rooms for exercise, ping-pong tables,
karaoke sets, DVD stations, bars for the
enterprising bartender. I heard that some
ships also come with swimming pools,
barbecue pits and fishing gear!
samudra Issue 1 (17)

A Close Shave
with Death
tsunami waters flood the wharf
They were survivors of the worst disaster ever to hit
Japan in recent years.
Singaporean SOS members - Mr Masrom B Mohd Ersat,
and his colleagues Mr Haris B Omar and Mr Rahman B Sidek
were part of a 21 member Wallenius marine crew engaged
by EUKOR Car Carriers Inc to have survived a 9.0 magnitude
earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan on 11 March
2011, and live to tell about it.
The vessel transported cars from Korea to America
and Canada; and lumber from Westminister Vancouver to
Okanama in Japan and Tai Keng in China.
Mr Masrom, a Bosun and SOS member of 35 years who
was in charge of the crew, recounts his close encounter in
what he calls “his worst and scariest disaster” since his brush
with a typhoon in Guttenberg and Werder Bremen, Germany
years ago.
“We arrived at Okanama Port (between Tokyo and
Fukushima) in Japan on 11 March 2011 at 1000 hours, and
started discharging until 1200 hours. We went for our lunch
and returned to work at 1300 hours; checking in on the cargo
before our coffee break just before 1445 hours, when we felt
the ship shaking.”
cracks in the wharf from earthquake
“We rushed out and saw large cracks appear on the
wharf and water gushing in from under it; even the container
cranes were shaking like coconut trees. We knew we had just
experienced an earthquake. Both our Chief and 2nd Officers
lifted the ramp. Almost instantly, the weather changed. The
fog and snow affected visibility.”
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“Five minutes later, the first big wave (about six to seven metres high)
appeared. The waters rushed in and swept everything away - garbage, fishing boats,
tug boats, and trucks. One fishing vessel even landed on top of the wharf. When the
first wave hit, I was securing the ship; the Chief Officer and an AB (able-bodied) were
outstation; while the 2 nd and 3 rd officers and remaining AB were on the bridge. The
rest of the crew were waiting for further instructions in the square.”
The ship’s captain (Capt Gilbert) tried to initiate
contact but there was no reply. When they were discussing
their next course of action, the second wave approached –
smashing the rear of the ship against the wharf when the
water receded and caused its rope to snap.
That evening - three hours after the incident, the crew
managed to make phone calls at the master station.
“I phoned my wife. When my family saw reports on the
news, I was told they phoned Wallenius Marine. My wife,
children and grandchildren were nervous but relieved. They
had just celebrated my birthday on 21 May. I’m very grateful
to be alive.”
Wallenius Marine rewarded each crew member with a
monetary token, while EUKOR (car carrier) honoured them
with medals.
“They were relieved that everyone was safe.
EUKOR’s General Manager came onboard to thank
us for saving the ship and cargo.
The superintendant of EUKOR
even gave me the title of
‘tsunami bosun’,” said Mr
Masrom with a laugh.
Tsunami Bosun,
Mr Masrom
When the third tsunami approached, the crew had
already moved out. “We had to leave. So we cut the rope
and sailed. When we sailed, the third wave came and pushed
our ship towards the breakwater. Another ship was not as
lucky. It collided with the breakwater. We saw some other
ships, bulk
carriers and cars
sink. Lucky for
us, we managed
to avoid any sort
of collision.”
S o o n
after, the
2 1 - m e m b e r e d
crew received
news that
radiation had
broke from
the Fukushima
nuclear plant.
“I’m glad the company
appreciates and recognises
us. This experience is not
going to deter me from
sailing. I have been
sailing a long time –
ever since 1969.”
“During the incident, my immediate reaction was to
save the ship and cargo first. The crew was alert and well
trained. They followed instructions, and showed good
cooperation leading up to the master station; and we
managed to account for every crew member and repair the
ship damage by welding. It has been a privilege working with
Capt Gilbert, 1st officer Rowan and the rest of the officers
and crew. We were in very good and capable hands.”
SOS salutes Mr Masrom B Mohd Ersat, Mr Haris B Omar,
Mr Rahman B Sidek and the Wallenius marine crew for their
bravery and dutiful valour.
samudra Issue 1 (19)

Tug-of-War Champs!
International Sportsweek for Seafarers 2011
It was sweet victory as SOS and Seacare emerged from last year’s
runners-up position in the tug-of-war local team category to
emerge champions this year. Triumphing over teams in the semis
and finals to earn top spot, SOS and Seacare dug deep, leaned into it
and heaved with all their might.
Tug-of-War was but one of several events at the International
Sportsweek for Seafarers organised by the Maritime and Port
Authority of Singapore (MPA) to encourage recreational activities
among seafarers.
(20) samudra Issue 1

Held over a week from 11 to 16 April at the Yio Chu Kang Stadium,
the event saw 1, 371 competitors from 13 ships of nine nationalities,
four ship flag states and eight maritime related organisations
participate in sporting events like Soccer, Track & Field, Basketball,
Shot Putt, Long Jump, Tug-of-War and Tele-matches. Ships in port
during the week were also invited to participate.
Of these, SOS and Seacare also clinched first, second and third
placings in various other events:
Track & Field Competition 60m Dash (Veteran)
1 st Rahmat B Abu Bakar 8.47 secs
Shot Putt (Open)
2 nd Jumari B Kariman 8.6 m
3 rd Harun B Salleh 7.6 m
Long Jump (Open)
2 nd Musa B Sias 4.8 m
3 rd Zakaria Zahit 3.9 m
samudra Issue 1 (21)

An Evening of
Fun and Games
SOS Members’ Night
SOS members were challenged in ways they never
thought possible as they guessed the names of
logos, used their facial muscles to edge a biscuit
from their foreheads to their mouths and strung penne
pasta into a strand of spaghetti using only their mouths.
The most “logocentric” and niftiest facial navigators
went home with fabulous prizes.
These and other activities were part of several
table games played at the SOS Members’ Night on 28
May held at Union Square in Amara Shopping Centre.
Members were treated to a buffet spread of gado
gado, prawn noodle soup, pineapple seafood fried rice,
baked chicken, salmon fillet, prawn, mutton rendang,
crab meat fritter, brownies, and red bean soup.
The evening opened up to a live band performance;
free flow of soft drinks, juices, beers and house pour
spirits; entertaining games; and a lucky draw where
winners danced their way to the dance floor to collect
their prizes. Participants did not go home empty-handed
as each received a bag of neatly-packed muffins.
(22) samudra Issue 1

S e a c a r e F o c u s
S e a c a r e F o c u s
S e a c a r e F o c u s
S e a c a r e F o c u s
samudra Issue 4 (23)

Seacare 2015
Workplan Seminar
A bold, visionary strategy for Seacare 2015 was put forward by
Seacare Group Executive Officer Mr Leow Ching Chuan at the
Co-operative workshop held on 19 April 2011 at Furama City Centre.
The group was challenged to sustain a staff strength of 800 to 1,000 and to
have its resources focused on core competencies especially on enterprises that
can be competitive. Seacare also set its sight on being a significant shareholder
of at least one Singapore listed company.
“In our pursuit of high performance with good net profits, we must not
forget the reason why Seacare was set up. In our 2015 plan, we will continue to
strengthen the social role of Seacare Co-operative,” said Mr Leow.
The heads of the five clusters - HR & Lifestyle; Maritime Services; Medical;
Property and Environmental; and Investment shared their projections and
together, the growth plans for Seacare 2015 were mapped out.
HR & Lifestyle Cluster
Seacare Manpower Services Pte Ltd
Started as a human resource agency for maritime and non-marine personnel,
Seacare Manpower Services Pte Ltd now has an impressive 15 year track
record and is one of the leading staffing and HR service provider in the
education industry sector.
The company sees itself providing a highly competent workforce catered to
clients’ HR needs and offering numerous employment opportunities to satisfy
jobseekers’ requirements.
By 2015:
To continue to be one of the leading service providers to the education
industry sector.
To provide staffing and HR solutions to diverse industry sectors.
To contribute to 80% of Seacare’s total workforce.
“The team has done well in meeting
the HR needs of the different industries
and creating training opportunities for
employees to be more employable. We
will continue to step up our efforts to
increase our market share, enhance
our brand and explore the growth
areas.”
- Seacare Manpower Managing Director and HR &
Lifestyle Cluster Chief Operating Officer, Mr Lee Van Chong
Seacare OKiKi p-Hub (S) Pte Ltd
A joint venture between Seacare Manpower Services Pte
Ltd and Seabay Innovation Centre Pte Ltd, the Seacare
Okiki p-Hub (S) Pte Ltd is headed by Mr Yuan Min, Chief
Executive Officer of ECNU (East China Normal University)
Okiki.
Its core activity is in coordinating training in Singapore
and Malaysia for personnel from PRC childhood education
industry players.
By 2015, Seacare OKiKi will be THE bridge between
Singapore and PRC childhood education industry players.
“We are exploring
business opportunities
through PRC staff
attachment with premier
childcare operators
in Singapore and to
effectively utilise key
resources both in
Singapore and China. We
are also looking into professional training
and event management in Singapore and
Australia.”
- Assistant Cluster Chief Operating Officer, Ms Evelyn Siow
(24) samudra Issue 1

Seacare Seafarer’s Club (SSC)
Registered on 26 August 2010, the SSC seeks to promote the
well-being and welfare of its members and their families through
interacting in social, cultural and recreational activities.
With a present membership strength of 800 ordinary members
and 19,000 associate members, expansion plans include a KTV
and pool table in the refurbished Club@52, the increase of voting
membership strength, and the organising of social activities to
supplement SOS’ membership services/
welfare division.
“The Seacare Seafarer’s Club
is set up to complement the
membership services and
welfare division of SOS. As a
new club, we can look set to
offer a wide range of benefits
and activities for our growing
membership.”
- Seacare Senior Group Business Development Manager, Ms
Jacquelyn Lam
Seacare i-ConnecZ Pte Ltd
Seacare e-Place facilitates
in the import of gift items,
supply of corporate gifts, and
provides events management
services. Upcoming projects
include the newly renovated
Club@52, a jackpot room for
the SSC, a Seacare Hotel Roof
Garden, Hotel Restaurant, and
a 24-hour Convenience Store.
“Our business is about people
– connecting them and
meeting their social needs.
The few years leading up to
2015 will be exciting years!”
- Seacare i-ConnecZ Pte Ltd Director,
Mr David Sim
Maritime Services Cluster
Magnum Marine Services Pte Ltd (MMSPL)
MMSPL provides logistical support
during seafarers’ transits in Singapore
and is intended as a one-stop agent for
marine support services under one roof.
By 2015, MMSPL sees itself meeting the
new needs of Seacare Hotel clients and
expanding its current market base to
include collaborations with companies
that complements its services.
“With the continued growth in
global marine activity, MMSPL
looks to expand its services
and strengthen our marketing
efforts through training staff
for service excellence, sourcing
better quality protective gears
for sea crew, reviewing the
needs of clients and developing
new areas of services.”
- MMSPL Chief Administrative Officer, Mr Alec Chew
- Mr Kong Mun Kwong shares
his input on MMSPL
Seacare Thrift Pte Ltd (STPL)
Seacare Thrift Pte Ltd (STPL) plays the critical role of managing
and administering the four schemes – Seafarers’ Provident Fund,
Seacare Medical Scheme, Seacare Maritime Training Scheme and
Seacare Sailors’ Home Scheme.
The company is exploring the feasibility of making it easier for
members to self-manage and administer their own SPF members’
accounts.
“To meet the needs of SOS CA companies subscribing
to SMTS, we are studying the
idea of setting up permanent
maritime training centres
equipped with full-fledge teams
of training professionals in China
and the Philippines. In fact, over
in Nantong, China, we have
found a place to do just that and
are expected to officially begin
operations soon.”
- Seacare Thrift Pte Ltd General Manager, Mr Daniel Tan
samudra Issue 1 (25)

Seacare International Phils. Inc.
Primarily STPL’s representative in the Philippines, Seacare International Philippine’s (SIP) functions as a
branch office to coordinate the various welfare schemes for SOS Filipino members.
“We have in store excellent benefits for our Filipino members. What we will focus
on is enhancing the awareness and visibility of the welfare schemes to more
members and have bigger reach. We will also continue to study and refine the
various schemes to have wider impact.”
- Assistant Cluster Chief Operating Officer, Ms Sharon Li
Medical Cluster
Seacare Maritime Medical Centre Pte Ltd (SMMC)
SMMC provides comprehensive medical services largely attuned to the needs of seafarers. Currently
operating 14 affiliated clinics in China, Indonesia, Philippines and Singapore, there are plans to further
expand its coverage to include non maritime industries – specifically corporate accounts including
hotels, managed care accounts, and private family practices.
With its newly acquired digital x-ray facility, SMMC is set to increase its patient pool by offering
value-add radiological services for general practitioners in the vicinity of Tanjong Pagar. It has also
expanded its reach of services in Seacare Shanghai to include mandatory/
pre-employment checkups for seafarers as well as healthcare services for
staff of shipping companies.
“In the pipeline are more projects, collaborations and acquisitions so that we
will fulfill our mission to be a leading healthcare provider with comprehensive
medical services.”
- SMMC Chief Executive Officer, Dr Chia Yih Woei
Property & Environmental Cluster
Seacare Properties Pte Ltd
“Growing from building operations and maintenance to active involvement in hotel management and
property development within Singapore and beyond.” This is Seacare Properties’ target by 2015 and
Seacare Hotel is one such project.
In South East Asia, Seacare Properties will be looking forward to expanding its hotel management footprint
through the development of hotels in Malaysia and Indonesia.
In Vietnam, Seacare Properties (Vietnam) anticipates the successful completion of City View Condominium
in Ho Chi Minh City by the 2nd quarter of 2011, with its marketing launch slated for the 3rd quarter of
2011. The condominium features 29 storeys and 280 apartment units of residential development with two
residential tower blocks of 25 storeys each.
In the Philippines, Sunshine Garden II – a residential complex with 290 apartment units is slated for
completion by the end of 2011.
“We are living in exciting times for the hotel management and property
development in the region. Our action plan is to create the foundation for a
strong regional presence and build up the Seacare brand name.”
- Seacare Properties General Manager, Mr Lim Chye Teen
(26) samudra Issue 1

Seacare Environmental Pte Ltd
Seacare Environmental Pte Ltd provides customised cleaning solutions for commercial buildings; clubs;
foodcourts; hotels; industrial and residential buildings; vessels; warehouses; childcare centres; and
school campuses.
The company aims to grow its manpower and operational capabilities to handle increasingly bigger scale
projects and enlarge its network coverage to ensure economies of scale.
“By 2015, Seacare Environmental will seek to strengthen revenue by consolidating
and growing our core businesses as well as seeking new avenues for growth.”
- Seacare Environmental Pte Ltd General Manager, Mr Alan Toh
Investment Cluster
By end of the financial year, the group structure will be streamlined with 18 subsidiary companies,
four associate companies, and four investments.
To strengthen corporate governance and growth strategies, an investment advisory committee (IAC)
will be formed to provide independent investment and divestment advice. The IAC shall take into
consideration the strategic direction of the business of the Seacare Group of Companies, returns and
benefits versus the risks, and the final terms and conditions of investment or divestment.
“We will strengthen the Seacare brand while the Seacare group of companies
work on building stronger services and expand their footprint in the next five
years.”
- Seacare Assistant CEO, Ms Shena Foo
WaterTech Pte Ltd
WaterTech Pte Ltd is an environmental engineering specialist providing integrated systems for water and wastewater treatment.
In focusing on being one of the earliest Singapore companies to open up new territories in Northeastern China, WaterTech
expands with her eco-engineering expertise. Its strengths lie in three main areas: ‘Technical Expertise’, ‘Contract and Financial
Solutions for BOT and BOOT projects’, and ‘Operating, Servicing, and Maintaining Industrial Water Treatment Plants’.
WaterTech’s technical expertise lies in its ability to customise design, and construct water eco-systems and technical solutions to
meet clients’ specific needs. It also possesses the right to use two patentable technologies - a specific Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF)
method and a micro-organism technology to treat wastewater.
“Developing and building a high and steady recurrent stream of revenues
through the construction, packaging, ownership, and management of long term
ecologically friendly engineering facilities and other assets will remain part of
WaterTech’s strategy to secure long term revenue generation and income.”
- -WaterTech Pte Ltd Chairman, Mr Goh Yeow Tin
2015WORKPLAN
PRESENTATION
19April2011
FuramaCityCentre
samudra Issue
2015WORK
1 (27)

In
the
Works:
New Maritime Training
Institute in Nantong, China
Good news! Within the fourth quarter of 2011, seafarers will have the added flexibility of receiving training to upgrade
and refresh their skills whenever they transit in Nantong!
Noting the increased demand for quality maritime training, and after much research and studies on feasibility, top officials
from Nantong Shipping College, Singhai Marine Services (S) Pte Ltd, and the SOS were in unanimous agreement that there is a
need for more training institutes dedicated to seafarers. This paved the way for the signing of a Joint Venture Agreement on 17
May 2011 for the formation of a Maritime Training Institute in Nantong, China.
Assuming SOS’ roles and responsibilities in the joint venture, Seacare Thrift Pte Ltd travelled to Nantong to sign the
agreement for the Institute – whose training services will be made available to SOS CA companies subscribing to the Seacare
Maritime Training Scheme (SMTS ), as well as other shipping and industry-related companies.
Singapore (Nantong) International
Maritime Institute (SNIMI)
Currently undergoing renovations to prepare for its official opening in the
fourth quarter of 2011, the training institute is leasing an existing building
within the premises of Nantong Shipping College (NTSC) - a vocational college
engaged in higher education under the direct authority of the Communications
Department of the Jiangsu Provincial Government.
Why Nantong Shipping College?
Situated in the city of Nantong, Jiangsu Province, in the People’s Republic
of China, the College provides maritime education to nearly 7,500 students
spanning nine academic departments from nautical; ship engine engineering;
ship engineering; management; automobiles and port machinery; to
mechanical and electrical engineering; information technology; foreign
languages; and the arts.
The college boasts 36 programmes of study with over 60 established
laboratories including a state-of-the-art ship-handing simulator, an engine
room simulator, a multimedia language teaching center, an industrial
automation control center, an automobile maintenance and repair center and
a numerical control processing center.
(28) samudra Issue 1

Why Nantong?
Located near the mouth of the Yangtze River’s golden
waters and the East China Sea in Jiangsu province, Nantong
is adjacent to the river and the sea coast and opposite the
international metropolitan city of Shanghai.
Ranked 32nd in a comprehensive list of competitive
facilities for Chinese cities, Nantong has the strongest
development potential among the six world mega-cities and
the Yangtze Delta area cities. It has established a modern road,
railway and water transportation network which connects land,
sea, river and airways to form an expeditious, efficient and
advantageous transportation system for both international and
domestic markets.
Only less than an hour’s drive from Shanghai, Nantong’s
strategic location not only boasts advantages in terms of
development, but makes it the second port along the Yangtze
River and one of the ten largest ports in China.
Nantong’s Economic and Technological Development
Zone was one of the earliest national level development zones
in China and one of the primary destinations for international
capital in the Yangtze Delta Area. It is suitable for ongoing
development of the neighbouring harbour related industry and
new advanced technology industries. It is the most liveable city
in the Yangtze Delta area.
Nantong emphasises a blend of commerce and civilization
and is fortunate to have an honest civil service, high social
credibility and developed social environment. It has also been
given the accolade of a ‘safe city’ for ranking the highest in
Jiangsu Province in terms of public security and is second in
terms of city orderliness and safety indices in all of China.
“The training institute will offer relevant maritime courses to seafarers. Its
centre will be equipped with an expert team of full-fledged training professionals
with the proper credentials and relevant industrial experience. Together with its
strategic location, we believe the institute will serve to boost the ongoing training,
development and growth needs of seafarers.”
- SOS General Secretary Mr Kam Soon Huat
samudra Issue 1 (29)

Same
but
Different
The social mission etched in the DNA of a co-operative enterprise
model, sets it apart and gives it the capacity and potential of
outperforming conventional corporations. However, despite
this latent potential, many co-operatives still struggle in navigating
the path to differentiation.
Aptly themed “differentiation”, this year’s ACLC organised
by the Singapore National Co-operative Federation (SNCF) aimed
at helping co-operatives differentiate their co-operatives from
commercial businesses through value propositions, products,
services, brand and customer experience.
Representing Seacare Co-operative Ltd (Seacare) in the threeday
conference were Directors Mr Raja Mohd Said B Raja Mohd
Shafik, Mr Mohamad B Abu Bakar, and Mr Abdul Rahim B Mohamed,
Assistant Group CEO Ms Shena Foo, and SNCF Youth Committee
Chairperson and Seacare Senior Group Business Development
Manager Ms Jacquelyn Lam. Insights were gleaned from 11
conference speakers from the private and co-operative sectors;
SNCF counterparts; as well as small-group discussions facilitated by
members of SNCF’s executive council and secretariat team.
Annual
Co-operatives
Leader’s
Conference
(ACLC) 2011
(30) samudra Issue 1

“
“For the first time, representatives from
non-cooperative sector were invited to speak
at the ACLC. Having them in the panel of
speaker is a good initiative as ACLC will now
also provide co-operators with the opportunity
to hear and learn from leading commercial
enterprises.”
- Ms Shena Foo
“We gained valuable insights from the
presentations that were centred around the
theme of “Differentiation” by the key note
speakers. The speakers from the commercial
sector underlined the importance of branding
to differentiate itself, while the two speakers
from the co-operative movement showcased
differentiation through social mission.”
- Ms Jacquelyn Lam
” “
Held in Le Grandeur, Jakarta, Indonesia from 15 to 17 May,
the ACLC targeted three key areas of ‘capability enhancement’,
‘relationship building’ and the ‘generation of awareness’ on the
importance of developing and implementing a ‘differentiation’
strategy.
”
Expounding on these areas and citing specific initiatives,
SNCF CEO Mrs Dolly Goh touched on discussions with SPRING
Singapore on co-operative enterprise funding, the launch of
the Business Process Improvement Programme and Shared IT
Services, as well as SNCF’s revamped web portal during her
opening address.
These initiatives were respectively deployed to secure
funding for SNCF affiliates in order to allowing co-operatives to be
accorded due regard as sustainable enterprises; enable co-ops to
gauge and further improve upon current levels of performance in
key areas like business processes and risk management; enhance
the capability and operational efficiency of co-operatives through
affordable shared services (i.e.: accounting systems, human
resource systems, email and calendar solutions); and receive
and engage members, target markets and the public, on-and offline
in order to remain relevant, and differentiated.
“SNCF has done much to help co-operatives
through their providence of relevant tools and
resources. The Shared Services launched will
definitely go a long way to reducing the labour
of short listing reliable systems and software.”
- Mr Raja Mohd Said B Raja Mohd Shafik
Photos courtesy of SNCF
samudra Issue 1 (31)

MMSPL
Magnum Marine Services Pte Ltd
YOUR PREMIUM ONE-STOP
MARINE SUPPORT SERVICES
Core Businesses
• Ship boarding services
• Immigration and customs clearances
• Crew land transfer
• Medical services and aftercare
• Crew emergency services in-port and outer-port-limits
• Supplies of working and protective gears
• Stocking and trans-shipment of ship owners’ items
• Customised services to shipowners in Singapore/Malaysia
• Cash delivery to ship Masters
• Repatriation of injured/deceased crew
• Replacement of lost documents
456 Alexandra Road #02-03 NOL Building Singapore 119962 • Hotline: (65) 96635159
Email: magnumms@singnet.com.sg • Website: www.magnummarine.com.sg